The Audio Engineer

A vital part in the making of any professionally made album is the production and post-production process. These processes are the responsibility of audio engineers employed by record labels. The engineers are responsible for the recording, mixing, and mastering of audio tracks. To do this, engineers are trained with various technologies in the fields of multi track recording, outboard gear and digital/analog workstations.With their knowledge and tools, engineers help the artists convey their art as best as possible not only to themselves but also to the demographic they wish to express their art to. The job of the engineer can be best described as a presenter in a techno artistic field. The job requires the technical capabilities and instinct to translate the artist’s ideas into a working production. In order to do this, the engineer must be educated in the Audio Industry with a Bachelors Degree in at least one of many Audio Production courses. Associated essay: Advantage Energy Technology Data Center MigrationThe individuals training for this degree must know the fundamentals of proper signal flow, how to work a mixing board, set up microphones, and manipulate outboard equipment that includes time based and dynamic processors. Once the engineer has taken the proper courses for the specific field and has received their commemorative degrees, they can learn more about audio engineering by taking in an internship at a recording studio, music venue, or radio station.A suggestion made by the Audio Engineering Society states that, â€Å"students should complete and internship or apprenticeship to gain hands-on experience, which will make them more marketable to potential employers† (www. aes. org). After receiving the hands on experience from internships, the climb to the top of their field starts and soon they begin to take on more important tasks in the studio, which can include becoming a second engineer or even becomi ng the lead engineer.As an engineer, the skills learned through out the course of ones career can build a high reputation in the industry, which in turn opens a wide range of opportunities to experience. The first phase in the production process of any project is recording. In this phase, the engineer captures one or more sound sources through the use of a wide range microphones and record it directly to one or more of the isolated tracks of a recording system.Through the process of multi track recording however, technologies have added a degree of flexibility by allowing multiple sound sources to be captured onto and played back from isolated tracks. Some of the many types of technology and supplies engineers use in the recording process include microphones, dynamics and time based processors, equalizers, and personal address systems. Personal address systems are made up of three different components that include speakers, amps, and mixers along with a wide variety of backline equi pment.Time Based Processors include effects such as echo which is recognizable, repeat of direct sound and reverb which consists of multiple, blended, random echoes. Dynamic based processors deal with compressors that reduce the dynamic range of a signal by making the loud signals softer and the soft signals louder or vice versa; a gate, which utilizes a threshold knob, that tells the processor when to start the process by cutting out certain frequency ratios. The microphones for each instrument are selected by experience or by experimentation and are then connected to the desired console.They then place the microphone in the desired position in order to get the best possible sound without distortion. Once that is processed, the microphone and track selection should be noted onto a track sheet for easy input and track assignment in the studio. After all the assignments and labeling have been applied, the engineer can begin the process of setting levels for each instrument and mic in put by communicating with each musician to play in solo mode or by asking for a complete run through of the song and listening to one input at a time.With the new age of pro studios, project studios, and digital audio workstations, engineers have a wide variety of tools and options for different types of productions, causing the approach to the projects to vary in many different ways. According to an interview of noted audio engineer Simon Kasprowicz â€Å"what makes a good engineer from a bad is totally subjective and depends upon individual desire because what may sound fantastic to someone, others will find fault in† (Kasprowicz, about. com).When all of the tracks of a project have been recorded, assembled, and edited onto the digital audio workstation or tape deck, the next step would be to individually mix the elements of their work in their final edited forms. The mix down process occurs by routing the various tracks of a digital audio workstation or tape based recorder through a hardware virtual mixing console to alter the overall session’s program, all which include getting relative level, spatial positioning, using equalizers, and effects. Once these measures are taken care of, the engineer can then set up a rough mix of the song by adjusting evels and the spatial pan positions. The producer who is mostly provides feedback to the artist and the engineer during the session, listens to the mix and may ask the engineer to make specific changes such as amplitude adjustments. Instruments in their isolated tracks are often soloed for equalized changes to be made. The usual compression and limiting can be used in the mixing process to make individual tracks sound fuller and more consistent in level or to prevent them from overloading the mix when searching for a desired level.Finally, the team consisting of the artists, producers and engineers in the session can now begin the cooperative process of building the mix in its final form. When the m ix begins to take its form, signal processors, such as effects like reverb and echo, can be added to shape the ambience of the recording in order to help blend with instruments and give a more live feeling to the mix. It’s very important for levels to be as consistent as possible between the various takes. Very often, good judgment is needed to monitor compatible listening levels on speakers or headphones.The reasoning behind this technique is due to the variations in human ear frequency response at different sound pressure level will result in inconsistencies between song balances. Once the final mix is made, the engineer will listen to the mix over different speaker systems for flaws that may have been missed. Making copies of the final mix and sending them out to the producer and artists to listen to is also an ideal way to discover any changes that may be necessary before sending out the final mix to the mastering engineer.Mastering is the process that uses specialized hi gh quality audio gear together with one or more sets of critical ears to help artists and producers attain the desired sound. This has to be done before the recording is made into a finished product. Bob Katz, author of Mastering Audio states that, â€Å"Mastering is the last creative step in the audio production process, the bridge between mixing and distribution† (Katz, 13). It is the last opportunity to enhance sound or repair problems within a studio under an audio microscopic spectrum.Once the final mix is completed, the edited mix down project is sent to the mastering engineers who then fine-tune the overall project. These engineers lend their well-trained ears to help determine what can go wrong technically or aesthetically. With this in mind, mastering too can be considered a techno-artistic field; when applying the rules that one mastering engineer can have a different approach to the sound and overall feel of the project than a different engineer. Mastering can have an important impact on the final project and the assignment of finding the right engineer should never be taken lightly.At times, the mastering engineer may not need to adjust the final mix at all and just give the track the seal of approvable for press. Most of the time, however, the engineer still aids the producer in the track they could not get right during the mix down process by adding their final touch to it. With the audio industry’s constant evolution due to new artists, technologies and recording techniques, labels and production companies are constantly seeking the services of professionally trained engineers.The importance of audio engineers in the hypercompetitive world of entertainment will only increase as new media become more prevalent. Whether its recording tracks at the beginning of the project, assembling and implementing sound effects during the mixing process, or finalizing the project to a desired standard, the audio engineer will continue to be an int egral member in the creation of mass distributed records.

An Evaluation on Factors That Influence the Choice of a Mobile Telecommunications Service Provider

TITLE:AN EVALUATION ON FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE CHOICE OF A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE PROVIDER TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Executive Summary3 2. Background4 2. 1Purpose of study5 2. 2Significance of study5 2. 3Research Objectives5 2. 4Research Questions6 3. Methodology7 3. 1Method of Research7 3. 2Types of Research7 3. 3Population7 3. 4Sampling7 4. Sources of data collection8 4. 1Secondary Data8 4. 2Primary Data8 5. Data collection tools8 5. 1Questionnaire8 5. 2Validity and Reliability9 6. Data Analysis10 7. Recommendations15 8. Limitations and Delimitations of the study16 9. Conclusion17 0. References18 11. Appendices19 1. 0Executive Summary The Zimbabwean telecommunication sector has grown rapidly over the past years. This exponential market growth attracted new players to this sector, which in turn resulted in increased competition. The aim of this study was to establish critical factors in the selection of mobile telecommunications service providers. A research instrument was e mployed to collect data from consumers of the three mobile phone operators in Zimbabwe. Convenience sampling, a form of non-probability sampling was used to collect data from 40 participants.This research used descriptive statistics for data analysis and discussions. The results of the study revealed that customers’ selection of which mobile telecommunications service providers to use is influenced by overall service quality, free calls and free SMSs, network capability, reliability of service, network innovativeness, low rate charges, accessibility, promotions with discount, geographic network coverage, family and friends, and customer care. In addition to this, the study found that customers prefer subscribing to the same service provider as their family members and friends.However, visually appealing physical facilities and high profile customers, were found to be the least influential factors in selecting mobile telecommunication service provider. Marketing mix elements a re relevant towards evaluating factors that determine the selection of mobile service provider in Zimbabwe. However, this study incorporated and investigated further by including factors influencing consumer buying behaviour, which makes it more comprehensive for application in telecommunication services.Thus, the focus on consumer behaviour was helpful in situating and understanding customers' buying behaviour in mobile telecommunication services. The study recommended specific marketing strategies to enhance the success of mobile service providers in this competitive market and ensure quality service delivery to satisfy customers. This study had limitations in its research design, strategy and sampling method; hence, areas for future studies addressing these shortcomings have been identified and recommended. 2. 0Background and objectivesThe mobile telecommunication industry has grown over the past few decades and has seen the industry undergoing intense competition to attract and retain customers. The mobile industry has become an important factor in global interactions as computer-based technologies and communication networks are being implemented daily. In the last twenty years, the mobile revolution has truly changed the socio-economic landscape of Zimbabwe and has seen the industry grow rapidly, that is keeping pace with global advancements in the mobile telecommunication market.The year 1997 marked a new era in the Zimbabwe telecommunication sector as it marked the beginning of deregulation of the telecommunications sector, which was previously a monopoly. The Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (PTC) which was wholly owned by the Government; did not have any competition and thus it flourished as the sole fixed line provider. According to Melody (1999) technological change and new service opportunities are factors bearing on the telecom reform process everywhere. In 1996, technological advancement saw the birth of NetOne, the first cellular network operator in Zimbabwe, a subsidiary under the PTC.However, in 1998 things started to change dramatically when the first major new player, Econet Wireless entered the telecommunications market. The deregulation of the telecommunications sector opened the market from a monopolistic market to a competitive multiple service providers. Currently, there are three mobile service providers in Zimbabwe, which are Econet Wireless, Telecel and NetOne, and the competitive pressure is high. The three MSPs compete with each other to grab customers by proving a wide range of both basic services and value added services.The customers enjoy the option of choices among the service operators and thus the competitive environment causes brand consciousness among the subscribers and potential buyers (Melody, 2003). In order to survive the competitive environment, the service providers must ensure network quality, customer acquisition and retention. Table 1 shows the detail of the mobile subscribers in Zi mbabwe, that depicts the market share of the MSPs. 2. 1Purpose of study The purpose of the study was to evaluate factors that determine the selection of mobile service providers.Also to evaluate and understand the consumers buying behaviour in selecting service providers and to help service providers to design more appealing marketing programs which deliver better customer value and thus providing the required returns. 2. 2Significance of study The robust competition between the three mobile network operators in Zimbabwe has intensified. Therefore, identifying and understanding the factors which considerably influence the customer buying behaviour is of greatest importance to the marketers.Thus, the key success factors in mobile telecommunication battles are effectiveness of marketing strategies and understanding of consumer behaviour. The determinant factors for customers choice of the MSP in Zimbabwe is not clear as there is insufficient documentation on the issue. Therefore, ther e is a need to empirically evaluate and analyze the phenomenon for managerial implications. The outcome of the study would provide insights to service providers to take profound actions towards enriching customers’ service experience.Moreover, the study also builds on existing consumer behaviour literature by exploring the factors influencing consumer buying behaviour that ultimately influence the selection of mobile service providers. In addition, the findings of the study will also assist telecommunication companies to invest their resources more efficiently, or to make changes to crucial quality attributes that bring out consumers’ satisfaction levels. 2. 3Research Objectives The overall objective is to ascertain the logic behind customers’ selection of a particular mobile service operator.Sub-objectives †¢To determine the social factors which lead the customer towards selecting a particular mobile service provider. †¢To determine the service qualit y dimensions influencing the customers’ selection of a particular mobile service provider. †¢To establish the influence of marketing mix elements on purchasing behaviour of mobile service operators. 2. 4Research Questions †¢Which social factors influence the selection of a mobile service provider? †¢Which service quality dimensions influence the customers’ selection of a particular mobile service provider? Which marketing mix elements have an influence in purchasing behaviour of mobile service operators? Keywords: Consumer behaviour , Service quality, Price, Promotion, Service availability/place 3. 0METHODOLOGY 3. 1Method of Research This is a quantitative study which mainly will depend on numeric data to classify features and count them. According to Burns & Grove 2005:23, quantitative research is a formal, objective, systematic process in which numerical data are used to obtain information. This research method is used to examine relationships among va riables and to determine the cause-and-effect interactions between variables.This study is concerned with the assessment of factors that influence consumer buying behaviour. 3. 2Types of Research A descriptive research was used for the study to describe factors that influence the customers buying behaviour as well as describing the marketing mix elements that play a role in determining the customers’ selection for mobile service provider. Polit and Hungler 1999 state that the descriptive research mainly describes what exists and may help to uncover new facts and meaning.The purpose of descriptive research is to observe, describe and document aspects of a situation as it naturally occurs. They further state that the descriptive research involves the collection of data that will provide an account or description of individuals, groups or situations. The research instruments that were used for this study were questionnaires with closed questions. 3. 3Population Population select ed for this study were all Bulawayo residents who are customers of any of the three mobile service providers available in Zimbabwe which is unknown. 3. Sampling Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill (2003) state that it is not easy to assess the entire population, therefore, it is necessary to assess a sample of the population as an alternative in order to generalize about the entire population. The researcher will target the Bulawayo residents who visit the National University of Science and Technology Campus along Gwanda Road and Cecil Avenue. The sample size used for the research was 100 respondents and a non-probability sampling technique was used. The convenience sampling method was used to select the targeted sample.According to convenience sapling is a statistical method of drawing representative data by selecting people because of the ease of their volunteering or selecting units because of their availability or easy access. The researcher used this method to get easy access to info rmation from walk in customers at the Main Administration Building (NUST Campus). Time and cost constraints also justified the convenience sampling technique. 3. 5Sources of data collection 3. 5. 1Secondary data Secondary data is the data which is collected for some other purposes or the data which is gathered by previous researchers.The research was involved in a desk research were information about the background of the telecommunications industry was acquired. The researcher also used articles, books and the internet to gather more information about the factors that influence the purchasing behaviour of mobile service provider. The data acquired aided the researcher in the analysis of data as a toll for deriving in reliable and relevant conclusions. 3. 5. 2Primary data In this research primary data was obtained by collecting data from uestionnaires which were administered at the Main Administration Building at the NUST Campus to the target sample size. The researcher issued the r espondents the questionnaire and gave the at most fifteen minutes to fill in the questionnaire. 3. 6Data collection tools There are many tools available for gathering empirical data but it depends upon research question and purpose of study that which tool is used for study. For this study, the researcher used the questionnaire because it is less time consuming, and provides good quality data easily. 3. 6. 1QuestionnaireThe questionnaire is the medium of communication between researcher and respondent. The researcher used close ended questions because of the quantitative nature of the study. The researcher chose the questionnaire because it is considered to be inexpensive, less time consuming and provide good quality data easily (Babbie, 2010). The questionnaire was drafted with the aim of answering the research question and research objectives. The questionnaire consisted of closed-ended questions as they were quicker and easier to answer and readily accessible to coding and quanti tative analysis.The questionnaires consisted of five categories and items on different constructs are organised in each category namely; service quality, price, promotions, availability and social factors. The questionnaires were personally handed to the respondents as they were entering the Main Administration Building. 3. 7Validity and Reliability Gravetter and Forzano (2009) state that the validity of a research study is the degree to which the study accurately answers the question it was intended to answer.According to Babbie (2010), the reliability of a research instrument is the degree of consistency with which the instrument measures the attributes it is supposed to be measuring. Validity and reliability were not measured for this report. 4. DATA ANALYSIS A five-point Likert scale was used to measure the output of each item answered by the respondents. The outputs, frequency tables were generated using the SPSS package and from these the data was presented in bar graphs. More over, the number of respondents who selected each of the response options is reported as percentages of the total number of responses.The total number of questionnaires issued was 40 but there were three spoilt questionnaires, so for the data analysis 37 questionnaires were analysed. Service Providers The findings in Fig 1 reveal that a total of 57% of the respondents were Econet Wireless subscribers, whilst 23% were NetOne and 20% being Telecel subscribers. The findings illustrate that most of the respondents were Econet Wireless subscribers. Frequency Responses from Social Factors Fig 2: Frequencies for Social FactorsThe findings in Figure 2 reveal that a total of 7% of the respondents disagreed, 36% were unsure and 57% agreed that it is important to subscribe to the same service provider with family members and friends. Additionally, 30% of the respondents disagreed, 10% were unsure while 60% agreed to value friends, colleagues and family members’ opinions before buying an y product from the service provider. On the other hand, 95% of the participants disagreed, 1% were unsure and 4% agreed that high profile customers of a particular service provider influence them to choose a mobile service provider.Frequency Responses for Service Quality Dimensions Fig. 3: Frequencies for Service Quality Dimensions Figure 3 reveal that 8% of the participants disagreed, 10% were unsure, 82% agreed that reliability of service influence their choice of the mobile service provider. Moreover, the figure show that 2% of the respondents disagreed, 0% were unsure and 98% agreed that network capabilities of a service provider influence their subscription to a mobile service operator.It is evident that customer’s choice of mobile service provider is significantly influenced by network coverage. It also reflects that 5% of the respondents disagreed, 7% were unsure and 88% agreed that network innovativeness is an important factor that they consider when subscribing to a mobile service provider. Likewise, the results reveal that 18% of the respondents disagreed, 3% were unsure, and 79% agreed that customer care at the service provider outlets influence them to choose a mobile service provider.Frequency Responses for Price Fig 4: Frequencies for Price Findings in Figure 4 illustrate that 15% of the participants disagreed, 2% were unsure, 83% agreed that low rate charges influence them to subscribe to a mobile service provider. Frequency responses to Promotional Mix Fig 5: Frequencies to promotional mix The findings in Figure 5 reveal that the results shows that 63% of the respondents disagreed, 3% were unsure, and 34% agreed that advertisement influences them to subscribe to a mobile service provider.These finding revealed that, the majority of the customers indicated that advertisement does not influence their choice of mobile service provider, thus advertisement was insignificant. Additionally, the findings shows that 17% of the respondents disagre ed, 11% were unsure and 72% agreed that offers such as SIM card offered with initial balance influences their selection of a service provider. Similarly, Figure 5 reveal that 13% of the participants disagreed, 2% were unsure and 85% agreed that free calls and free SMS encourage them to subscribe to a mobile service provider.The findings show that free calls and free SMS significantly determine customers’ choice of mobile network. Frequency Responses from Service Availability Aspects Fig 6: Frequencies from Service Availability Aspects The data in Figure 6 reveals that 37% of the respondent’s disagreed, 30% were unsure, 32% agreed to value visually appealing physical facilities than customer care. Likewise, it illustrates that 11% of the participants disagreed, 10% were unsure and 79% agreed that accessibility of services influence their preference for mobile service provider.That means ease access to telecommunication services influence consumers’ choice. On the other hand, the findings reveal that 51% of the respondents disagreed, 24% were unsure, 25% agreed that international roaming plays an important role when choosing a mobile network. 5. 0RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the findings of this research, the mobile service providers are recommended to: †¢Provide service quality through network quality, network extension and upgrade. †¢Offer quality service at lower rates. †¢Provide more offers for family and friends. †¢Enrich customer’s service experience and loyalty.Value the importance of day-to-day interactions, such as response quality in call centers, skills of staffs in retail outlets, speed of technical repair and other measures. †¢Pay attention to staff skill possession, knowledge, attention to customers and their needs, offering of fast and efficient services and general attitude to customer services. †¢Consistently monitor what customers want and what they get through the feedbacks, then identify t he gap in between through research and bridge the gap through continuous innovation. 6. 0LIMITATIONS AND DELIMITATIONS OF THE STUDYA discussion of the study limitations demonstrates that the researcher understands that no research project is perfectly designed; consequently, the researcher will make no overweening claims about generalizability or conclusiveness about what has been learned (Marshall and Rossman, 2011). This study was limited to evaluate the factors that determine the selection of mobile service provider. In fact, considering resources and time constraints, the research was limited to one town in Zimbabwe. Therefore, it cannot be representative of the whole of Zimbabwe population’s behaviour. Some of the limitations originated from the tool that was used.The use of the closed ended questionnaire meant that it was not possible to ask follow-up questions and thus finding out the reasons for selecting a particular service provider over the other. The other concern is that this study was measuring factors affecting consumers’ perception in the telecommunication sectors were measured, but there is a lack of related literature. The delimitations of a study are those characteristics that limit the scope of the inquiry and define boundaries for the study (Ledez, 2008). Furthermore, the delimitations of this study were also related to the use of a singular research design as opposed to triangulation.The research instrument and the number of test items were also limited. 7. 0CONCLUSION This study aimed to evaluate the factors that determine the selection of mobile service providers in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe’s mobile telecommunication market has grown over the past decade and it is highly competitive. In any competitive environment, firms are likely to compete in order to attract and retain customers. However, it is extremely important that a company recognizes the needs, wants, tastes, criteria and the perceptions of its customers.The stu dy employed data representing factors that influence customers’ selection of mobile network to identify and meet customers’ needs and wants as well as to establish the perceived and preferred service quality, activities that would entice customers, the prices that customers are willing and able to pay, and the possible best ways of utilizing available resources to supply the needed/desired services. The Zimbabwean mobile networks must maintain a combination of all these variables in order to succeed in a competitive telecommunication market as well as to enjoy the uch-needed profit to invest in network infrastructure, innovations and human resources. Providing superior service quality, particularly, in the dimensions of network quality and performance, reliability, responsiveness, and convenience, is of utmost importance that requires mobile service provider managerial attention in order to attract and retain customers. The study suggested that regulators in the Zimbab we’s telecommunication sector should take appropriate measures to include these dimensions in undertaking objective assessment of quality of service of mobile telephone operators in safeguarding customers’ interest.In this study, the focus on marketing mix elements and consumer behaviour was helpful in situating and understanding customers' preferences and buying behaviour in mobile telecommunication services. Besides, it is evident that customers’ choice is largely influenced by marketing mix elements. The current study established that customers look at the call rates; promotional mix offers such as free calls/minutes and free SMSs, and promotions with discount and free sample play a vital role in customers’ choice of mobile service provider . REFERENCES 1. Babbie, E. R. (2010), The Practice of Social Research. 2th edition. USA: Wadsworth. 2. Burns and Grove aker, M. J. (2003), The Marketing Book. 5th edition. USA: Butterworth-Heinemann. 3. Gravetter, F . J. and Forzano, L. B. (2009). Research Methods for the Behavioural Sciences. 3rd edition. USA:Wadsworth. 4. Hanif, M. , Hafeez, S. , and Riaz, A. (2010). Factors Affecting Customer Satisfaction. International Research Journal of Finance and Economics [online], 60 (2010), p. 44-52. Available from: http://www. eurojournals. com/irjfe_60_04. pdf [Accessed 22 February 2013]. 5. Kapoor, R. , Paul, J. and Halder, B. (2011). Services marketing: Concepts and Practices.New Delhi: McGraw-Hill. 6. Marshall, C. and Rossman, G. (2011). Designing Qualitative Research. 5th edition. California: Sage Publications, Inc. 7. Melody, W. H. (1999). Telecom Reform: Progress and Prospects. Telecommunications Policy, 23 (1999), p. 7 – 34. 8. Melody, W. H. , (2003). Preparing the Information Infrastructure for the Network Economy. World Telecommunications Markets: International Handbook of Telecommunications Economics, Vol. III, p. 1-27. 9. Paulrajan, R. and Rajkumar, H. (2011). Service Quality and Customers Preference of Cellular Mobile Service Providers.Journal of Technology Management & Innovation, 6(1), p. 38-45. 10. Thornhill, N. (2003). Your research Project. 2nd edition. London: Sage. 11. Wilson, R. M. S. and Gilligan, C. (2005). Strategic Marketing Management: Planning, Implementation and Control, 3rd edition. Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann. Appendix 1 Table 1: Subscriber base in Zimbabwe Service ProviderNumber of Subscribers Econet Wireless10. 2 million NetOne2. 6 million Telecel1. 8 million Appendix 2 A QUESTIONNAIRE ON EVALUATION OF FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE CHOICE OF A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE PROVIDER Good day, my name is Thembelihle Moyo.I am a student at the National University of Science and Technology doing Master of Science Degree in Marketing. I am carrying out a evaluation on factors that influence the selection of a particular mobile service provider. The information solicited herein is purely for academic purposes and will be treated in the stric test confidence. 1. Which service provider’s connection do you have? Econet Telecel NetOne 2. Social Factors Using a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being â€Å"strongly agree† and 1 being â€Å"strongly disagree†. Please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements:Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree Family and friends should be the sole reason of choosing a mobile network I value the opinions of my friends when making purchasing decisions High profile customers inspire me in making purchase decisions 3. Service Quality Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree The mobile service provider I use is reliable The mobile service provider has a wide network coverage The mobile service provider has high quality in network innovativeness The have high standards of customer care 4. Price Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly AgreeThe low rate charges attract customers to this service provider 5. Promotion al Mix Elements Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree The advertisements of this mobile service provider attracted me to be their subscriber The sim card with initial balance attracted me to this mobile service provider The free calls and free sms attracted me to be a subscriber 6. Service Availability Aspects Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree The offices are visually appealing The service is easily accessible International roaming is one aspect that is essential in a mobile line THANK YOU An Evaluation on Factors That Influence the Choice of a Mobile Telecommunications Service Provider TITLE:AN EVALUATION ON FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE CHOICE OF A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE PROVIDER TABLE OF CONTENTS 1. Executive Summary3 2. Background4 2. 1Purpose of study5 2. 2Significance of study5 2. 3Research Objectives5 2. 4Research Questions6 3. Methodology7 3. 1Method of Research7 3. 2Types of Research7 3. 3Population7 3. 4Sampling7 4. Sources of data collection8 4. 1Secondary Data8 4. 2Primary Data8 5. Data collection tools8 5. 1Questionnaire8 5. 2Validity and Reliability9 6. Data Analysis10 7. Recommendations15 8. Limitations and Delimitations of the study16 9. Conclusion17 0. References18 11. Appendices19 1. 0Executive Summary The Zimbabwean telecommunication sector has grown rapidly over the past years. This exponential market growth attracted new players to this sector, which in turn resulted in increased competition. The aim of this study was to establish critical factors in the selection of mobile telecommunications service providers. A research instrument was e mployed to collect data from consumers of the three mobile phone operators in Zimbabwe. Convenience sampling, a form of non-probability sampling was used to collect data from 40 participants.This research used descriptive statistics for data analysis and discussions. The results of the study revealed that customers’ selection of which mobile telecommunications service providers to use is influenced by overall service quality, free calls and free SMSs, network capability, reliability of service, network innovativeness, low rate charges, accessibility, promotions with discount, geographic network coverage, family and friends, and customer care. In addition to this, the study found that customers prefer subscribing to the same service provider as their family members and friends.However, visually appealing physical facilities and high profile customers, were found to be the least influential factors in selecting mobile telecommunication service provider. Marketing mix elements a re relevant towards evaluating factors that determine the selection of mobile service provider in Zimbabwe. However, this study incorporated and investigated further by including factors influencing consumer buying behaviour, which makes it more comprehensive for application in telecommunication services.Thus, the focus on consumer behaviour was helpful in situating and understanding customers' buying behaviour in mobile telecommunication services. The study recommended specific marketing strategies to enhance the success of mobile service providers in this competitive market and ensure quality service delivery to satisfy customers. This study had limitations in its research design, strategy and sampling method; hence, areas for future studies addressing these shortcomings have been identified and recommended. 2. 0Background and objectivesThe mobile telecommunication industry has grown over the past few decades and has seen the industry undergoing intense competition to attract and retain customers. The mobile industry has become an important factor in global interactions as computer-based technologies and communication networks are being implemented daily. In the last twenty years, the mobile revolution has truly changed the socio-economic landscape of Zimbabwe and has seen the industry grow rapidly, that is keeping pace with global advancements in the mobile telecommunication market.The year 1997 marked a new era in the Zimbabwe telecommunication sector as it marked the beginning of deregulation of the telecommunications sector, which was previously a monopoly. The Posts and Telecommunications Corporation (PTC) which was wholly owned by the Government; did not have any competition and thus it flourished as the sole fixed line provider. According to Melody (1999) technological change and new service opportunities are factors bearing on the telecom reform process everywhere. In 1996, technological advancement saw the birth of NetOne, the first cellular network operator in Zimbabwe, a subsidiary under the PTC.However, in 1998 things started to change dramatically when the first major new player, Econet Wireless entered the telecommunications market. The deregulation of the telecommunications sector opened the market from a monopolistic market to a competitive multiple service providers. Currently, there are three mobile service providers in Zimbabwe, which are Econet Wireless, Telecel and NetOne, and the competitive pressure is high. The three MSPs compete with each other to grab customers by proving a wide range of both basic services and value added services.The customers enjoy the option of choices among the service operators and thus the competitive environment causes brand consciousness among the subscribers and potential buyers (Melody, 2003). In order to survive the competitive environment, the service providers must ensure network quality, customer acquisition and retention. Table 1 shows the detail of the mobile subscribers in Zi mbabwe, that depicts the market share of the MSPs. 2. 1Purpose of study The purpose of the study was to evaluate factors that determine the selection of mobile service providers.Also to evaluate and understand the consumers buying behaviour in selecting service providers and to help service providers to design more appealing marketing programs which deliver better customer value and thus providing the required returns. 2. 2Significance of study The robust competition between the three mobile network operators in Zimbabwe has intensified. Therefore, identifying and understanding the factors which considerably influence the customer buying behaviour is of greatest importance to the marketers.Thus, the key success factors in mobile telecommunication battles are effectiveness of marketing strategies and understanding of consumer behaviour. The determinant factors for customers choice of the MSP in Zimbabwe is not clear as there is insufficient documentation on the issue. Therefore, ther e is a need to empirically evaluate and analyze the phenomenon for managerial implications. The outcome of the study would provide insights to service providers to take profound actions towards enriching customers’ service experience.Moreover, the study also builds on existing consumer behaviour literature by exploring the factors influencing consumer buying behaviour that ultimately influence the selection of mobile service providers. In addition, the findings of the study will also assist telecommunication companies to invest their resources more efficiently, or to make changes to crucial quality attributes that bring out consumers’ satisfaction levels. 2. 3Research Objectives The overall objective is to ascertain the logic behind customers’ selection of a particular mobile service operator.Sub-objectives †¢To determine the social factors which lead the customer towards selecting a particular mobile service provider. †¢To determine the service qualit y dimensions influencing the customers’ selection of a particular mobile service provider. †¢To establish the influence of marketing mix elements on purchasing behaviour of mobile service operators. 2. 4Research Questions †¢Which social factors influence the selection of a mobile service provider? †¢Which service quality dimensions influence the customers’ selection of a particular mobile service provider? Which marketing mix elements have an influence in purchasing behaviour of mobile service operators? Keywords: Consumer behaviour , Service quality, Price, Promotion, Service availability/place 3. 0METHODOLOGY 3. 1Method of Research This is a quantitative study which mainly will depend on numeric data to classify features and count them. According to Burns & Grove 2005:23, quantitative research is a formal, objective, systematic process in which numerical data are used to obtain information. This research method is used to examine relationships among va riables and to determine the cause-and-effect interactions between variables.This study is concerned with the assessment of factors that influence consumer buying behaviour. 3. 2Types of Research A descriptive research was used for the study to describe factors that influence the customers buying behaviour as well as describing the marketing mix elements that play a role in determining the customers’ selection for mobile service provider. Polit and Hungler 1999 state that the descriptive research mainly describes what exists and may help to uncover new facts and meaning.The purpose of descriptive research is to observe, describe and document aspects of a situation as it naturally occurs. They further state that the descriptive research involves the collection of data that will provide an account or description of individuals, groups or situations. The research instruments that were used for this study were questionnaires with closed questions. 3. 3Population Population select ed for this study were all Bulawayo residents who are customers of any of the three mobile service providers available in Zimbabwe which is unknown. 3. Sampling Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill (2003) state that it is not easy to assess the entire population, therefore, it is necessary to assess a sample of the population as an alternative in order to generalize about the entire population. The researcher will target the Bulawayo residents who visit the National University of Science and Technology Campus along Gwanda Road and Cecil Avenue. The sample size used for the research was 100 respondents and a non-probability sampling technique was used. The convenience sampling method was used to select the targeted sample.According to convenience sapling is a statistical method of drawing representative data by selecting people because of the ease of their volunteering or selecting units because of their availability or easy access. The researcher used this method to get easy access to info rmation from walk in customers at the Main Administration Building (NUST Campus). Time and cost constraints also justified the convenience sampling technique. 3. 5Sources of data collection 3. 5. 1Secondary data Secondary data is the data which is collected for some other purposes or the data which is gathered by previous researchers.The research was involved in a desk research were information about the background of the telecommunications industry was acquired. The researcher also used articles, books and the internet to gather more information about the factors that influence the purchasing behaviour of mobile service provider. The data acquired aided the researcher in the analysis of data as a toll for deriving in reliable and relevant conclusions. 3. 5. 2Primary data In this research primary data was obtained by collecting data from uestionnaires which were administered at the Main Administration Building at the NUST Campus to the target sample size. The researcher issued the r espondents the questionnaire and gave the at most fifteen minutes to fill in the questionnaire. 3. 6Data collection tools There are many tools available for gathering empirical data but it depends upon research question and purpose of study that which tool is used for study. For this study, the researcher used the questionnaire because it is less time consuming, and provides good quality data easily. 3. 6. 1QuestionnaireThe questionnaire is the medium of communication between researcher and respondent. The researcher used close ended questions because of the quantitative nature of the study. The researcher chose the questionnaire because it is considered to be inexpensive, less time consuming and provide good quality data easily (Babbie, 2010). The questionnaire was drafted with the aim of answering the research question and research objectives. The questionnaire consisted of closed-ended questions as they were quicker and easier to answer and readily accessible to coding and quanti tative analysis.The questionnaires consisted of five categories and items on different constructs are organised in each category namely; service quality, price, promotions, availability and social factors. The questionnaires were personally handed to the respondents as they were entering the Main Administration Building. 3. 7Validity and Reliability Gravetter and Forzano (2009) state that the validity of a research study is the degree to which the study accurately answers the question it was intended to answer.According to Babbie (2010), the reliability of a research instrument is the degree of consistency with which the instrument measures the attributes it is supposed to be measuring. Validity and reliability were not measured for this report. 4. DATA ANALYSIS A five-point Likert scale was used to measure the output of each item answered by the respondents. The outputs, frequency tables were generated using the SPSS package and from these the data was presented in bar graphs. More over, the number of respondents who selected each of the response options is reported as percentages of the total number of responses.The total number of questionnaires issued was 40 but there were three spoilt questionnaires, so for the data analysis 37 questionnaires were analysed. Service Providers The findings in Fig 1 reveal that a total of 57% of the respondents were Econet Wireless subscribers, whilst 23% were NetOne and 20% being Telecel subscribers. The findings illustrate that most of the respondents were Econet Wireless subscribers. Frequency Responses from Social Factors Fig 2: Frequencies for Social FactorsThe findings in Figure 2 reveal that a total of 7% of the respondents disagreed, 36% were unsure and 57% agreed that it is important to subscribe to the same service provider with family members and friends. Additionally, 30% of the respondents disagreed, 10% were unsure while 60% agreed to value friends, colleagues and family members’ opinions before buying an y product from the service provider. On the other hand, 95% of the participants disagreed, 1% were unsure and 4% agreed that high profile customers of a particular service provider influence them to choose a mobile service provider.Frequency Responses for Service Quality Dimensions Fig. 3: Frequencies for Service Quality Dimensions Figure 3 reveal that 8% of the participants disagreed, 10% were unsure, 82% agreed that reliability of service influence their choice of the mobile service provider. Moreover, the figure show that 2% of the respondents disagreed, 0% were unsure and 98% agreed that network capabilities of a service provider influence their subscription to a mobile service operator.It is evident that customer’s choice of mobile service provider is significantly influenced by network coverage. It also reflects that 5% of the respondents disagreed, 7% were unsure and 88% agreed that network innovativeness is an important factor that they consider when subscribing to a mobile service provider. Likewise, the results reveal that 18% of the respondents disagreed, 3% were unsure, and 79% agreed that customer care at the service provider outlets influence them to choose a mobile service provider.Frequency Responses for Price Fig 4: Frequencies for Price Findings in Figure 4 illustrate that 15% of the participants disagreed, 2% were unsure, 83% agreed that low rate charges influence them to subscribe to a mobile service provider. Frequency responses to Promotional Mix Fig 5: Frequencies to promotional mix The findings in Figure 5 reveal that the results shows that 63% of the respondents disagreed, 3% were unsure, and 34% agreed that advertisement influences them to subscribe to a mobile service provider.These finding revealed that, the majority of the customers indicated that advertisement does not influence their choice of mobile service provider, thus advertisement was insignificant. Additionally, the findings shows that 17% of the respondents disagre ed, 11% were unsure and 72% agreed that offers such as SIM card offered with initial balance influences their selection of a service provider. Similarly, Figure 5 reveal that 13% of the participants disagreed, 2% were unsure and 85% agreed that free calls and free SMS encourage them to subscribe to a mobile service provider.The findings show that free calls and free SMS significantly determine customers’ choice of mobile network. Frequency Responses from Service Availability Aspects Fig 6: Frequencies from Service Availability Aspects The data in Figure 6 reveals that 37% of the respondent’s disagreed, 30% were unsure, 32% agreed to value visually appealing physical facilities than customer care. Likewise, it illustrates that 11% of the participants disagreed, 10% were unsure and 79% agreed that accessibility of services influence their preference for mobile service provider.That means ease access to telecommunication services influence consumers’ choice. On the other hand, the findings reveal that 51% of the respondents disagreed, 24% were unsure, 25% agreed that international roaming plays an important role when choosing a mobile network. 5. 0RECOMMENDATIONS Based on the findings of this research, the mobile service providers are recommended to: †¢Provide service quality through network quality, network extension and upgrade. †¢Offer quality service at lower rates. †¢Provide more offers for family and friends. †¢Enrich customer’s service experience and loyalty.Value the importance of day-to-day interactions, such as response quality in call centers, skills of staffs in retail outlets, speed of technical repair and other measures. †¢Pay attention to staff skill possession, knowledge, attention to customers and their needs, offering of fast and efficient services and general attitude to customer services. †¢Consistently monitor what customers want and what they get through the feedbacks, then identify t he gap in between through research and bridge the gap through continuous innovation. 6. 0LIMITATIONS AND DELIMITATIONS OF THE STUDYA discussion of the study limitations demonstrates that the researcher understands that no research project is perfectly designed; consequently, the researcher will make no overweening claims about generalizability or conclusiveness about what has been learned (Marshall and Rossman, 2011). This study was limited to evaluate the factors that determine the selection of mobile service provider. In fact, considering resources and time constraints, the research was limited to one town in Zimbabwe. Therefore, it cannot be representative of the whole of Zimbabwe population’s behaviour. Some of the limitations originated from the tool that was used.The use of the closed ended questionnaire meant that it was not possible to ask follow-up questions and thus finding out the reasons for selecting a particular service provider over the other. The other concern is that this study was measuring factors affecting consumers’ perception in the telecommunication sectors were measured, but there is a lack of related literature. The delimitations of a study are those characteristics that limit the scope of the inquiry and define boundaries for the study (Ledez, 2008). Furthermore, the delimitations of this study were also related to the use of a singular research design as opposed to triangulation.The research instrument and the number of test items were also limited. 7. 0CONCLUSION This study aimed to evaluate the factors that determine the selection of mobile service providers in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe’s mobile telecommunication market has grown over the past decade and it is highly competitive. In any competitive environment, firms are likely to compete in order to attract and retain customers. However, it is extremely important that a company recognizes the needs, wants, tastes, criteria and the perceptions of its customers.The stu dy employed data representing factors that influence customers’ selection of mobile network to identify and meet customers’ needs and wants as well as to establish the perceived and preferred service quality, activities that would entice customers, the prices that customers are willing and able to pay, and the possible best ways of utilizing available resources to supply the needed/desired services. The Zimbabwean mobile networks must maintain a combination of all these variables in order to succeed in a competitive telecommunication market as well as to enjoy the uch-needed profit to invest in network infrastructure, innovations and human resources. Providing superior service quality, particularly, in the dimensions of network quality and performance, reliability, responsiveness, and convenience, is of utmost importance that requires mobile service provider managerial attention in order to attract and retain customers. The study suggested that regulators in the Zimbab we’s telecommunication sector should take appropriate measures to include these dimensions in undertaking objective assessment of quality of service of mobile telephone operators in safeguarding customers’ interest.In this study, the focus on marketing mix elements and consumer behaviour was helpful in situating and understanding customers' preferences and buying behaviour in mobile telecommunication services. Besides, it is evident that customers’ choice is largely influenced by marketing mix elements. The current study established that customers look at the call rates; promotional mix offers such as free calls/minutes and free SMSs, and promotions with discount and free sample play a vital role in customers’ choice of mobile service provider . REFERENCES 1. Babbie, E. R. (2010), The Practice of Social Research. 2th edition. USA: Wadsworth. 2. Burns and Grove aker, M. J. (2003), The Marketing Book. 5th edition. USA: Butterworth-Heinemann. 3. Gravetter, F . J. and Forzano, L. B. (2009). Research Methods for the Behavioural Sciences. 3rd edition. USA:Wadsworth. 4. Hanif, M. , Hafeez, S. , and Riaz, A. (2010). Factors Affecting Customer Satisfaction. International Research Journal of Finance and Economics [online], 60 (2010), p. 44-52. Available from: http://www. eurojournals. com/irjfe_60_04. pdf [Accessed 22 February 2013]. 5. Kapoor, R. , Paul, J. and Halder, B. (2011). Services marketing: Concepts and Practices.New Delhi: McGraw-Hill. 6. Marshall, C. and Rossman, G. (2011). Designing Qualitative Research. 5th edition. California: Sage Publications, Inc. 7. Melody, W. H. (1999). Telecom Reform: Progress and Prospects. Telecommunications Policy, 23 (1999), p. 7 – 34. 8. Melody, W. H. , (2003). Preparing the Information Infrastructure for the Network Economy. World Telecommunications Markets: International Handbook of Telecommunications Economics, Vol. III, p. 1-27. 9. Paulrajan, R. and Rajkumar, H. (2011). Service Quality and Customers Preference of Cellular Mobile Service Providers.Journal of Technology Management & Innovation, 6(1), p. 38-45. 10. Thornhill, N. (2003). Your research Project. 2nd edition. London: Sage. 11. Wilson, R. M. S. and Gilligan, C. (2005). Strategic Marketing Management: Planning, Implementation and Control, 3rd edition. Elsevier Butterworth-Heinemann. Appendix 1 Table 1: Subscriber base in Zimbabwe Service ProviderNumber of Subscribers Econet Wireless10. 2 million NetOne2. 6 million Telecel1. 8 million Appendix 2 A QUESTIONNAIRE ON EVALUATION OF FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE CHOICE OF A MOBILE TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICE PROVIDER Good day, my name is Thembelihle Moyo.I am a student at the National University of Science and Technology doing Master of Science Degree in Marketing. I am carrying out a evaluation on factors that influence the selection of a particular mobile service provider. The information solicited herein is purely for academic purposes and will be treated in the stric test confidence. 1. Which service provider’s connection do you have? Econet Telecel NetOne 2. Social Factors Using a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being â€Å"strongly agree† and 1 being â€Å"strongly disagree†. Please indicate the extent to which you agree or disagree with the following statements:Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree Family and friends should be the sole reason of choosing a mobile network I value the opinions of my friends when making purchasing decisions High profile customers inspire me in making purchase decisions 3. Service Quality Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree The mobile service provider I use is reliable The mobile service provider has a wide network coverage The mobile service provider has high quality in network innovativeness The have high standards of customer care 4. Price Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly AgreeThe low rate charges attract customers to this service provider 5. Promotion al Mix Elements Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree The advertisements of this mobile service provider attracted me to be their subscriber The sim card with initial balance attracted me to this mobile service provider The free calls and free sms attracted me to be a subscriber 6. Service Availability Aspects Strongly DisagreeDisagreeNot SureAgreeStrongly Agree The offices are visually appealing The service is easily accessible International roaming is one aspect that is essential in a mobile line THANK YOU

The big idea...read the requirement i send you carefully Essay

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NET interoperability: integration strategies, patterns, and best practices, ISBN 0131472232: Prentice Hall PTR Mueller, J. , (2005), Mastering Web Development with Microsoft Visual Studio 2005, ISBN 078214439X: John Wiley and Sons Patel, K. , (2005), A Comparison between Java and . NET from Software Architecture, retrieved on August 19, 2010 from http://kaushalp. blogspot. com/2005/08/comparison-between-j2ee-and-net. html Surapaneni, N. , and Katre, D. , (2004), Java and NET: Guide to Interoperability and Migration, ISBN 8120324447: PHI Learning Pvt. Ltd.

How Relevant Are the Early Theories of Le Bon and Freud?

How Relevant Are the Early Theories of Le Bon and Freud? How relevant are the early theories of Le Bon and Freud in comparison to more contemporary theories of crowds? One of the earliest theories of crowd behaviour was presented by Gustav Le Bon in 1895, which he referred to as group mind theory (Le Bon, 1895). He viewed crowd behaviour as acting according to primitive impulses which are lacking in reasoning and rationality. Le Bon proposed that individuals in a crowd behave in accordance with a ‘law of mental unity of crowds’ and no longer identify themselves as individuals, instead becoming anonymous members of a group who lose their sense of self and responsibilities (Bendersky, 2007). They become easily aroused or agitated, and descend into barbarism whereby individual conscience is overtaken by the ‘law of mental unity’ (Le Bon, 1908). Due to their large numbers and anonymity, the crowd gains a sense of strength and power, leading to a ‘special state, which much resembles the state of fascination in which the hypnotised individual finds himslf in the hands of the hypnotiser’ (Le Bon, 1908; Ginneken, 1992 : 131), rendering the individual no longer conscious of his actions. Despite its lack of evidence, Le Bon’s ‘mob psychology’ became a popular theory and continues to be a powerful social influence, including by those in authority (Banyard, 1989). Similarly to Le Bon, Freud (1922) proposed that the collective mind is led almost exclusively by the unconscious. According to Freud (1922), the crowd ‘unlocks’ the individual unconscious mind; the super ego, or conscience, which he maintained controls civilised behaviours, is exceeded by the uncivilised id impulses, or instinctual drive part of the psyche, as provoked by the leader of the crowd. Likened to the hypnosis state identified by Le Bon, identification with and desire for approval from the leader suspends the super ego (Freud, 1922) and associated normal judgement subdues the internalised values of right and wrong and impulse control. Interestingly, Freud identifies that crowd members accept the influence of the group due to a need to feel in harmony with the power the group and its leader exerts, observed in later studies of conformity (Hogg Vaughan, 2005). In later years, Freud (1949) moves beyond his basic drive theory towards the acknowledgment and importa nce of social relationships, such as that of the family, leading to advancements in the area of object relations. Le Bon’s observations of the behaviour of crowds led to the development of a concept referred to as deindividuation, which was first introduced in the 1950s (Festinger et al. 1952). While early theories of crowds suggested that they acted as a primitive mob, Deindividuation theory formed a modern counterpart to this idea. Zimbardo (1969) based his approach largely on Le Bon’s general perspective by proposing that people in crowds experience deindividuation; a loss of their own personal identity, enabling them to merge anonymously into the crowd. His proposal that this loss of identity means that primitive, uncivilised tendencies emerge and people are then prepared to act in ways that are aggressive, cruel and anti-social, compared to how they may act as individuals, is similar to the early observations and theories put forward by both Le Bon and Freud. Early explanations of the effects of deindividuation suggested that a reduced sense of public accountability weakens the normal restraints against impulsive and aggressive behaviour (Festinger et al. 1952; Zimbardo, 1969). Explanations of deindividuation have however evolved over the decades; from a focus on loss to the finding that cues that are specific to the situation evoke social norms that guide behaviour within anonymous groups, leading to a reformulation of the mental processes involved in deindividuation (Diener, 1980). This view holds that situations that reduced public accountability, such as group size (Mann, 1981) and anonymity, do not simply lead to a loss of the salience of people’s personal identities but leads to the loss of objective self-awareness (Diener, 1980). The salience of group identities is enhanced and consequently, individuals in the crowd are more responsive to tensions within the group, increasing the potential for disorder (Schweingruber, 2000). This more recent explanation suggests that these same features of group situations promote greater conformity to situation-specific social norms. Emergent norm theory represented a shift from the earlier theories which focussed on pathological crowd behaviour (Reicher, 2001), by considering crowd behaviour as a norm-governed behaviours which are evident in all types of groups. According to Turner Killian (1972), the fact that a crowd has no formal organisation to regulate behaviour makes it distinctive. The uniformity of the crowd is an illusion created by the distinct actions of prominent crowd members (Turner, 1964). These acts imply a norm, and consequently there is a pressure to conform to these norms, which is likely to increase the potential for antisocial behaviour (Cabinet Office, 2009). Emergent norm theory one of the first to refer to crowd behaviour as normal (Reicher, 2001) and allows researchers to consider collective action and behaviour as normal social processes which possess internal coherence, bound by rules and norms. It does not however account for cultural variations in crowd behaviours (Reicher, 2001). The social identity model of crowd behaviour is based on social identity theory and self-categorisation theory (Turner et al. 1987). Social Identity Theory (SIT) differs from the other positions, in stressing that control of the crowd occurs via a new shared social identity (Reicher, 1996a; Stott Reicher, 1998a) rather than a loss of identity or of control over their behaviours. It proposes that when social identity is salient, group behaviour will occur irrespective of anonymity and that people interact with other people as representatives of their social group, which acts as an interface which shape their interactions (Reicher, 2001). Importantly, SIT proposes that control comes from the individual rather than from pressure from others, so when an individual identifies with the crowd, they accept and adhere to the crowd norms as their own. As with Emergent Theory, the norms are evident in the cultural, ideological, political and situationally constructed norms. The SIT fundamental principle of a shared social identity has remained an important concept in subsequent studies of individual behaviours within crowds. Le Bon’s early theories about crowd behaviour led to important research within the area of crowd behaviour and remains important due to the influence his perspective has had in later and more recent theories of collective and crowd behaviours. His general perspective was used in the research on deindividuation, which conveys the power of situations in determining people’s behaviour in a variety of large group situations and remains prominent in the study of group behaviour (Reicher et al. 1995). However, it makes implicit value judgements about crowds, dwells on loss, and suggests that people in crowds lose all manner of rational thinking. While it appears that deindividuation plays a role in understanding the antisocial behaviour tendencies of crowds, research into crowds and the way that people in crowds perceive what is happening, suggests that his theory is not as powerful as described. Freud’s (1922) Group Psychology and the Analysis of the Ego is one of his most significant contributions to understanding mass psychology and led to many subsequent studies on mass psychology and group dynamics. More recent studies suggest that crowd behaviour is more rational and structured that it is often presented as being. Contemporary theories of crowd behaviour discard the specifics of these earlier approaches and instead move this area of study forward by considering how a norm emerges from within the crowd, which enabled social psychologists to view collective behaviour as a social process bound by social norms. Social Identity Theory enables understanding of the order and purpose of the crowd in terms of the common identity of its members. Theories of crowd behaviour, such as SIT (Tajfel Turner, 1979) and deindividuation theory (Festinger et al. 1952) suggest that crowds often behave in a common manner in yielding to the social influence of the crowd (Myers, 2005). Individual crowd members do however differ in their vulnerability to social influence therefore variables within the situational context may influence behavioural outcomes. Theories of crowd behaviours have significantly evolved over the decades since the ideas put forward by Le Bon and Freud. They are not taken into account in the consideration of crowd behaviours in the present time like more contemporary theories such as the social identity model of crowd behaviour (Cabinet Office, 2009). However, they do present in the evolution of the associated research in the consideration of the development of the ideas specific to crowd behaviour. With the continued development of theories such as the Social Identity model of Deindividuation Effects (SIDE) (Klein et al. 2007), which retains the fundamental principle of anonymity (Cabinet Office, 2009), and the Elaborated Social Identity Model of crowd behaviour (ESIM) (Drury Reicher, 1999), research is beginning to reach an analysis which brings together many levels of explanation, which is needed within the area of crowd behaviour research.

Opposites Attract :: essays research papers

Opposites Attract On November 17, 1998, I walked into the halls of Towers High School for the very first time. Nervous and afraid, I was introduced to the eight grade class president, John Hamilton. John was both charismatic and charming. He was the type of guy everyone wanted to be around because he gave off a feeling of security and warmth. When I first met Him, John made me feel welcomed. He opened his heart to me and from that day on, I looked for friends willing to do the same. As I grew older, I met two of the most converse individuals in the world. When I was first introduced to Chris and Desmond, I did not know what to think. Everyone said that they were best friends, but for some strange reason I just could not understand why. As time passed we became closer and we grew fonder of each other. We did just about everything together. Then finally, after all the years of questioning their relationship, it finally hit me, opposites attract. Chris grew up in a stable home with a mother, a father, a sister, and an older brother. He learned how to live life very differently than anyone I’ve every met because he had to learn how to provide and to survive on his own. Even though he had both a mother and a father living with him, they still did not have enough money to provide everything for him immediately after his birth. He learned how to be independent and that has made him the person he is today. When he was fourteen, his family moved from a low income neighborhood to an upper middle class neighborhood. From rages to riches, some people might say, but that was not the case. Chris was still the same cheap guy. Chris has the type of personality that I absolutely hated when I first met him. He said things that were true, but uncalled for at the time. He just told the truth no matter what or who might got hurt. I honestly could not stand him for that. As we became closer I began to understand that was a very outspoken individual, who never held back. And now I really appreciate that about his character. Chris is my balance in life. Whenever I’m on cloud nine, he always brings me back to reality. Desmond is also my best friend.

An Analysis of A Raisin In the Sun :: Raisin Sun essays

An Analysis of A Raisin In the Sun "A Raisin In The Sun" is a play written by an African-American playwright - Lorraine Hansberry. It was first produced in 1959. Lorraine Hansberry's work is about a black family in the Chicago's South-Side after the Second World War. The family consisted of Mama(Lena Younger), Walter Lee(her son), Ruth (his wife), Travis (their son), and Beneatha (Walters younger sister). The Younger family lived in poor conditions, and can't afford to have better living standards. However, Lena is waiting to receive a $10,000 check from her late-husbands insurance money. The two main characters in the play, Mama and Walter, want this money to be used for the benefits of the whole family. Even though both of them want to benefit the family, each one has a different idea of what to do with the money and how to manage it to benefit everyone. Walter Lee, like his father want's his family to have a better life and want's to invest the money in a liquor store. Walter want's the money so that he can prove that he is capable of making a future for his family. By doing well in business Walter thinks that he can buy his family happiness. Walter has dreams. Dreams he most likely got from his father. Dreams of better life for his family and himself. A dream of financial security and comfortable living. Ruth, on the other hand is stable and down to earth. She doesn't make rash choices to accommodate a dream. She will just make do with what she has. Mama is a loving person, she is wise but lives in the past. She is happy to have her family with and be safe from society. She thinks that money is not something that makes a family happy. Besides dreams Walter also has a husbands responsibilities which are universally thought of as being able to support his family and raise his children so they are morally in line with what he believes in. Walter's problem, however, seems to be that he is building his supposedly well thought out plan of investing money in a liquor store into something he is infactuated with. By creating this infactuation, he is not able to achieve his responsibilities. Besides having responsibilities Walter also has his

Dr. Heideggers Experiment: Reality Or Illusion Essay -- essays resear

Dr. Heidegger's Experiment: Reality or Illusion In Nathaniel Hawthorne's short story Dr. Heidegger's Experiment, one of the central ideas of the story revolves around the idea of reality versus illusion. Of course the overriding theme of the story dealt with the ethical dilemma of changing old age into youth, still a major part of how the story was interpreted involved a personal decision on how you took the story; as literal or figurative. The perception that appealed to me the most was reading the text as literal, and concluding the experiment as reality rather then a figment of imagination caused by the intoxicating brew. A couple of points that Hawthorne made led me to believe that the story was indeed a true testament of the powers of the magical water. The first is rather evident and straight forward because it happens before a single person even raises glass close to their lips. I am of course referring to the fifty- five year old rose that was given to Dr. Heidegger on the eve of his wedding by his bride to be. Heidegger places the rose in the water so there could be proof of the mysterious water's power, but in the same act of proving its power to his guests Hawthorne proves to us the power of the water because when the rose regains life nobody was drunk or had even attempted to drink the water. "The crushed and dried petals stirred, and assumed a deepening tinge of crimson, as if the flower were r...

Safe Driving

Everything happening oh so fast; from getting in the car to seeing the black escalade ram through our car. With the thought of â€Å"im dead† then everything going pitch black, everything seemed meaningless. Accidents factor in more than just impaired driving and icy roads. The drivers’ condition along with their responsibilities is the reason Peggy will never walk again.Drivers need to stay sharp and aware on the road, and judging from the story ken did not seem to follow this. Even if you pay full attention, the danger of others is always on the road. As careful as you are other drivers mistakes are inevitable. In the story it says he rolled up his sleeves, even though it isn’t much; its still a sign of him compromising Peggy’s safety. Even if you take all precautions and stay aware of the road; you can’t always keep track of the always changing road conditions.Safety is key for driving, but there are many complications on the road. It’s no t always the road that complicates your safety; in the story it refers to Peggy wanting to visit the liquor store. Impaired driving injures someone ever other minute; with 16,000 deaths a year. Alcohol could’ve been a factor of why ken crashed, or it could’ve been a health issue. Peggy speculated he had a stroke or something at the wheel. Another safety violation occurred in the story; says he has only hand on the wheel. Again, it’s not much but it could’ve aided to the accident.Even if the accident wasn’t within kens control, he is still responsible for it. Drivers are responsible for just about everything that happens to it and in the car. Ken took the wheel; as long with Peggy’s mobility. Other people on the road are highly unpredictable, but that doesn’t change the fact your responsible for your own.In the end, it truly is Kens fault for paralyzing Peggy. Many things factor into an accident; but I think the main reason were his aw areness for the road and lack of safe driving. It may have been Peggy’s choice to get in the car; but its clearly Kens fault for the crash. I feel people take driving to  lightly, its one of the most dangerous methods of travel. People need to be more cautious.

Global Trends

Global Trends MGT 460: Leadership Priorities & Practice Instructor William Conaway February 17, 2011 Global Trends Education is arguably one of the biggest industries in the world. People pay to learn and if we are honest, people learn to get paid. Individuals stress to their children the importance of doing well in school. Why? The world has put a prerequisite on success, and it is education. Since we know that education is vital and we understand that the twenty-first century has brought with it a global community; it follows that the Education industry in America, especially public school, must change if this millennial generation is to be successful in the future and as a future public school worker I must be marketable for those changes. General Environment Children are different today then they were 10 years ago. Between the internet, video games, and movies it takes a lot more to hold their attention which means it takes a different type of teacher to get them to learn. Baby boomers who make up the largest population of the experienced teaching community will be retiring over the next 3-5 years. Although these teachers have years of experience this particular generation is very different from anything they have ever faced. Consequently, the students have been turned off by their traditional approach. . Lee Goeke the former head of Human Resources for Vancouver Public â€Å"studied what he calls the millennial generation — those who graduated from high school in 2000 or later. He determined they weren't obsessed with money like Baby Boomers or Generation Xers. Out of all the generations we've had, this is the perfect generation for teaching,† Goeke said. â€Å"The millennial generation is more interested in vision and philosophy. (McLatchey, 2008). Task Environment We live in a global community. The internet and other advanced technologies have brought the world together in an unusual way; resulting in Americans not just competing among ourselves, but with people all over the world. This has always been the case in some industries since the establishment of America, but never to the degree in which we see it today. Consequently, public education is becoming an industry of great importance. Parents are demanding more of the curriculum. Society as a whole recognizes the need for quality public school education if we are to continue to compete with companies around the world in the future whose educational systems will or have surpassed ours. Pulling it all Together In the next three years due to the shrinking size of the world and the competition for jobs in our global community education in America will become more world based, focusing on the total growth of the developing child, touching hearts as well as minds and encompassing social, physical, emotional and cultural needs in addition to academic development (http://www. bo. org/pyp/). Having a degree in both organizational management which prepares me for the global business market and psychology which helps me understand social, emotional, and cultural needs will make me not only extremely marketable in the years to come, but an effective member of the education community. References http://www. ibo. org/pyp/ Rafte ry, I (2 March). With teacher turnover high, Vancouver schools shift recruiting effort to attract idealists. McClatchy – Tribune Business News. Retrieved March 31, 2008, from ABI/INFORM Complete database. (Document ID: 1437867971).